FYI for those libraries interested in applying. Deadline is Feb. 3rd. Informational webinars are on Dec. 11th and Jan. 7th. Karren Reish Library Grants Coordinator Library of Michigan 517-241-0021 reishk@michigan.gov<mailto:reishk@michigan.gov> From: IMLS News [mailto:imlsnews@imls.gov] Sent: Thursday, October 31, 2013 2:32 PM Subject: New Press Release: Call for Applications: 2014 National Leadership Grants for Libraries To view this message in a browser, please click here<http://www.idevmail.net/message.aspx?d=73&m=1777&e=reishk@michigan.gov&r=857123>. [IMLS logo] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 31, 2013 IMLS Press Contact 202-653-4799 Giuliana Bullard, gbullard@imls.gov<mailto:gbullard@imls.gov> Call for Applications: 2014 National Leadership Grants for Libraries Washington, DC—The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is accepting applications for National Leadership Grants for Libraries. The application deadline is February 3, 2014. The program supports projects that address challenges faced by the library and archive fields and that have the potential to advance practice in those fields. Successful proposals will generate results such as new tools, research findings, models, services, practices, or alliances that can be widely used, adapted, scaled, or replicated to extend the benefits of federal investment. The funding range is from $50,000 to $500,000, and there are cost sharing requirements. Projects must begin on October 1, November 1, or December 1, 2014. Click here for program guidelines and more information about the funding opportunity.<http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=1&d=73&mid=363882&m=1777> Supporting National Initiatives This year, IMLS invites libraries to address STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) in their programs and projects in order to advance learning and support the acquisition of STEM knowledge at all ages, but particularly for at-risk youth. Click here to learn more about IMLS's role in STEM initiatives.<http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=2&d=73&mid=363882&m=1777> Getting Your Questions Answered IMLS staff members are available by phone and email to discuss general issues relating to these funding programs. IMLS recommends that prospective applicants participate in a live pre-application webinar about the program. The webinar provides an opportunity to ask questions of IMLS staff members and listen to the questions and comments of other participants. IMLS is using the Blackboard Collaborate system (version 12.5). If you are a first-time user of Blackboard, click here to check your system compatibility and configure your settings.<http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=3&d=73&mid=363882&m=1777> The schedule for the live webinars for FY14 National Leadership Grants for Libraries is: Wednesday, December 11, 2:00-3:00 p.m. Eastern Time Tuesday, January 7, at 2:00-3:00 p.m. Eastern Time See Grant Program Guidelines<http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=4&d=73&mid=363882&m=1777> for additional webinar details. About the Institute of Museum and Library Services The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov<http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=5&d=73&mid=363882&m=1777> and follow us on Facebook<http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=6&d=73&mid=363882&m=1777> and Twitter<http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=7&d=73&mid=363882&m=1777>.